454 BBC Valve Covers

[Jeff]

This is probably a dumb question, but I'll humiliate myself anyway.  I want to replace my old rusty/chrome (short) valve covers.  Does it matter that much (mechanically), if I replace them with "tall" valve covers, vice the "short" ones???  I found a reasonable priced set, but they're "tall" valve covers.  What are some of the better features that I should be looking for?, I know I will not purchase chrome valve covers.  I appreciate your info & comments.

[beastie_3]

I dont have experience, but Ive heard that the tall covers contact the brake booster. I suppose a little hammer work would solve the issue, perhaps someone else will chime in.

[Jeff]

I don't think that will be a problem.  Did not want to make this a "long story".  But, I'll give you the "Paul Harvey-rest of the story".  Currently, the 454 is mounted in an '86 GMC K10.  I'm removing the '86 GMC body, and replacing these with a '74 C10 (2wd) cab & front clip, and a '76 short bed-step side.  Looking at the current installation, there's plenty of room between the brake booster and the valve cover (even, if it were a "tall" valve cover).  I believe the location and positioning of these items should be about the same, regardless of year.  Thanks for your response.

[choptop]

The a/c compressor may have clearnace issues, but if you have no a/c, no prob

[Jeff]

I do have a vintage air serpentine belt system, so that is very noteworthy information.  I'll check for clearance issues with the A/C compressor and maybe the alternator. Thanks!

[fitz]

A 2wd cab on a 4x4 will require you to modify the trans tunnel or run a body lift. I'm not a huge fan of the body lift but it will help you with the valve cover/brake booster clearance issue.

[Jeff]

I agree with you with regards to the body lift.  Currently, the '86 GMC K10 has a 4" suspension lift.  I haven't checked the tunnel yet on the hump of the '86 to see if it is the bolt-on removable type.  Haven't got that far yet, as I've been busy working on the other cab.  As  a minimum, I'd rather cut out the '86 tall hump and "graft" it on the '74 hump for clearance.  Thanks for your response.

[Pullin81]

yeah i have not run the tall covers with an AC compressor but depending on the brand of tall covers i had edelbrock elite covers at first and i had to loosen off my brake booster  to get the covers on...and it left about 1/4 inch clearance between the booster and valve covers.....since then i swaped to comp valve covers and now i have close to an inch and i dont have to loosen off the brake booster...